The Historic Districts Commission of Concord convened on November 14, 2024, to discuss a proposal from the Concord Public Works regarding the replacement of waste barrels and recycling cages in the Main Street Hubbardville historic district. The meeting featured presentations from Aaron McCloskey, the highway and grounds superintendent, and Justine St. John, a program analyst.

The primary agenda item focused on the plan to replace existing solid waste and recycling receptacles with new solar-powered compactors. McCloskey explained that the current open containers would be replaced with dual-compacting units, which are designed to enhance efficiency and sanitation. The new units will be installed at 21 locations throughout the historic district, ensuring uniformity in style.

McCloskey highlighted the benefits of the compactors, including reduced collection frequency, which could lower service costs significantly. Currently, the town collects waste from the existing receptacles multiple times a week, especially during peak tourist seasons. With the new compactors, the goal is to reduce this to once a day or even less, depending on usage.

The compactors are designed to be locked and pest-resistant, addressing issues with overflow and littering that have plagued the current open containers. They will also feature indicator lights to signal when they need to be emptied, although McCloskey clarified that the units would not rely on cellular monitoring for service needs.

Commissioners raised questions regarding the number of units being installed, with some expressing concerns about potential redundancy given their proximity to one another. McCloskey acknowledged these concerns and indicated that the town would monitor usage closely to determine if adjustments could be made in the future.

The meeting concluded with a consensus on the necessity of the upgrades, emphasizing the importance of maintaining cleanliness and efficiency in the historic district. The commission will continue to evaluate the implementation of the new waste management system as it progresses.